Although I have been a triathlete for 4 years-enjoying the training and competition of multi-sport, the last year has added an internal depth to my commitment - for Joe’s mom. She was a very active 76 year old who enjoyed Jazzercise, yoga, and volunteering in a city school’s reading program. She was always on the go. Mom was always interested in how my training was going, where my latest ride had taken me, or how I did in a race. When people would make comments asking things like “Why do you do this” or “you’re crazy” Mom would firmly tell them “Because she can!”
When her cancer progressed and she could no longer participate in these activities, she told me to “keep going.” “You do this for me because I can’t anymore.”
Last October while Mom was in hospice care, I would do my training rides to visit her, or do a training run on the Genesee River trail nearby. I would arrive in my bike gear and she was always excited to hear about whatever route I traveled and how my training was going. And, in quiet times when we were alone, she would remind me to keep going for her.
On the evening of October 28, 2018, I received another of many emails about registration for Ironman Lake Placid and a reminder that their free deferral program ended at midnight. So, just before midnight I registered. At 1:30 AM we got the call that Mom had passed away.
Mom has been with me through my training for the past 9 months-every bike, every swim, bike, run, strength, stretching session. I carry her words and her incredible strength with me always.
So, my very first full Ironman is for you, Mom! I love you!
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